This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to
Preston (Lancs)

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) by train

Planning a train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs)? The trip usually takes about 48 mins, covering approximately 27 miles (44 kilometres). With roughly 70 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £4.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Frequency

70trains
per day

Journey Time

from0hrs 36 mins

Changes

069 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:57 / 00:24

Distance

27miles
(44 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£4.00

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) by Train

Jump on a Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs)? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 48 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Manchester Piccadilly, the quickest trains can get you there in just 0hrs 36 mins. With approximately 70 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 27-mile (44 km) route usually requires just one change, with Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £4.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Preston (Lancs)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs)? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 48 mins & the fastest journey takes 0hrs 36 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) is 0hrs 36 mins.

How much does the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) cost?

Train ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £4.00 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 70 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:57, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:24.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs)?

First class tickets on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs) typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs)?

Amenities on trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs) can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs). On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Preston (Lancs), and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs)?

Yes! There are usually around 69 direct services per day from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs)

What train companies run services from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs)?

Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs)?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Manchester Piccadilly and Preston (Lancs), but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
04:57 Manchester Piccadilly05:34 Preston (Lancs)Direct37 mins Get Tickets
05:04 Manchester Piccadilly05:51 Preston (Lancs)Direct47 mins Get Tickets
05:49 Manchester Piccadilly06:32 Preston (Lancs)Direct43 mins Get Tickets
06:02 Manchester Piccadilly06:57 Preston (Lancs)Direct55 mins Get Tickets
06:22 Manchester Piccadilly07:00 Preston (Lancs)Direct38 mins Get Tickets
06:33 Manchester Piccadilly07:28 Preston (Lancs)Direct55 mins Get Tickets
06:44 Manchester Piccadilly07:51 Preston (Lancs)1 changeWarrington Bank Quay
1 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
07:02 Manchester Piccadilly07:59 Preston (Lancs)Direct57 mins Get Tickets
07:21 Manchester Piccadilly07:59 Preston (Lancs)Direct38 mins Get Tickets
07:33 Manchester Piccadilly08:28 Preston (Lancs)Direct55 mins Get Tickets
07:50 Manchester Piccadilly08:32 Preston (Lancs)Direct42 mins Get Tickets
08:02 Manchester Piccadilly08:57 Preston (Lancs)Direct55 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) start from as little as £4.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) start from £13.00 one way, or £14.10 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) are available for £13.30 one way, or £21.80 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Preston (Lancs) is £4.10 & the average saving on this route is £4.10!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Manchester Piccadilly Station

Exploring Manchester Piccadilly Train Station

Manchester Piccadilly is an iconic travel hub, bustling with energy and packed with features to smooth your journey. Serving millions of passengers each year, it stands as a crucial entry and exit point for both the city of Manchester and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist navigating the UK rail system, understanding the facilities and services at Manchester Piccadilly can enhance your travel experience significantly.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Manchester Piccadilly expertly caters to passenger needs with a variety of facilities. The ticket office operates diligently from as early as 4:30 am to 10:30 pm through the week, ensuring you can grab a ticket for those early morning travels. For those tech-savvy commuters, ticket machines are readily available and accessible, allowing smooth online ticket collection. The station is well-equipped for accessibility; offering step-free access, ramps, and tactile warning strips for the visually impaired make it a user-friendly place for all travelers.

The station boasts free public Wi-Fi, ATM machines, and a plethora of shops and dining options. Coffee lovers will appreciate the numerous kiosks, while those in need of essentials can visit the mini supermarkets and pharmacies located within the station. The station even went the extra mile to ensure comfort by providing lounges, including a 1st Class Lounge and an Assisted Travel Lounge, making it an amenable waiting experience.

Transport Links and Connectivity

Getting to and from Manchester Piccadilly is a breeze with its robust transport links. Metrolink trams connect you to key destinations like Bury, Rochdale, and Manchester Airport, among others. For those preferring buses, a network of frequent local services are operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach'. There's also a free bus service that runs every ten minutes around the city center—a convenient option for quick city hops.

The taxi rank located at the Fairfield Street exit offers service between 2 am to 5 am, giving you round-the-clock availability. If you're looking to explore the city on two wheels, Brompton bicycles are available for hire with two flexible tariffs. Additionally, if you're embarking on a flight, Manchester International Airport is just 9-10 miles away with several direct train services throughout the day. Car hire agents are also a short walk from the station, providing flexibility in travel.

Popular Destinations from Manchester Piccadilly

If you have a penchant for exploring, Manchester Piccadilly serves as the starting point for many fascinating journeys. The station offers direct links to major destinations such as London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street, and Glasgow Central. Local routes include convenient trips to nearby spots like Stockport and Manchester Airport, ensuring you're never far from a new adventure.

Your Gateway to Adventure

Whether your travels stem from business, leisure, or curiosity, Manchester Piccadilly is more than just a train station—it's a gateway to new experiences and connections. Leveraging its exceptional facilities and detailed information will set you up for a successful journey, unlocking the vast and vibrant landscapes of the UK. Don't just arrive; embark on your journey with enthusiasm and ease from Manchester Piccadilly, where the rhythm of the railways meets the heartbeat of the city.

Everything you need to know about Preston (Lancs) Station

Welcome to Preston (Lancs) Train Station

Whether you're setting off for a scenic trip through the UK, commuting for work, or heading to visit friends and family, Preston (Lancs) train station acts as a gateway to your journey. Situated in the vibrant heart of Lancashire, Preston station offers a comprehensive range of facilities that cater to your travel needs, making it a crucial hub for both local and long-distance travel.

The station is efficiently managed by Avanti West Coast and ensures a seamless experience for travelers, thanks to its extensive amenities and services that cater to millions of passengers each year. From ticketing to refreshments, everything is designed to make your travel as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Station Facilities & Amenities

Preston (Lancs) train station is well-equipped to handle the demands of modern travel. The ticket office is open from early morning until late at night, and with ticket machines available, it's convenient to purchase and collect your tickets, including those bought online. While smartcards aren't issued at the station, helpful staff are always available to assist you at help points, information points, and the ticket office itself.

Accessibility is a key strength of the station, with step-free access throughout, ramps for train access, and accessible ticket machines. Waiting rooms with automatic doors are located on platforms 3 and 4. Although there's no first-class lounge, seating and accessible toilets are available, providing a comfortable environment for everyone. CCTV coverage enhances the safety and security of the station premises.

For those needing to stay connected, the station provides accessible pay phones, although public Wi-Fi isn't available. Should you wish to explore local amenities or grab a quick refreshment, a selection of shops and eateries are conveniently located within the station.

Onward Travel Options

The station is a well-connected transport node that offers a variety of onward travel options. Taxis are readily accessible outside the station entrance, and a freephone service is available within the ticket office area to book them. Preston's local bus services also provide an efficient means of travel within and around the city, albeit with no Metro services available.

Should your journey require car hire, the nearest Eurocar branch is located approximately half a mile from the station. For the environmentally conscious or recreation-minded, a cycle hire is available from Leisure Lakes Bikes, offering a convenient bike shop adjacent to Platform 7. Additionally, the station allows easy pick-up and drop-off for Rail Replacement Services at the short-stay car park on Butler Street.

Popular Destinations from Preston

Preston station serves as a gateway to a plethora of bustling cities and tranquil towns across the UK. With direct routes to major cities like London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly, the station provides fast and frequent services that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're heading off to the seaside charm of Blackpool North or the cultural richness of Edinburgh, you'll find the station's connections both comprehensive and convenient.

Don't forget, journeys to closer destinations like Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Airport can be a breeze with excellent train services. Explore more rural settings such as Blackburn or plan your next adventure to vibrant Glasgow Central. Whatever your destination, Preston's connectivity ensures you're never too far from your next adventure.

Your Ticket to Exploring

Whether you're a seasoned commuter or an enthusiastic explorer, Preston (Lancs) train station opens the door to an exciting world of travel opportunities. It stands as a testament to Lancashire's vibrant rail history while seamlessly integrating modern conveniences for today's traveler.

As each train departs, the promise of discovering new places or reconnecting with loved ones begins. Make Preston (Lancs) your starting point for countless journeys, and don't hesitate to snag your travel tickets to make the most of your trip. With a wealth of connections and a rich tapestry of destinations at your disposal, there's no better time than now to explore the wonders that lie beyond Preston's tracks.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Manchester Piccadilly